Child Therapists in McLean, VA

Photo of Nicholas B Liappis, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicholas B Liappis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22101
I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) native to McLean, VA. For 25 years I’ve had the opportunity to use my training, skills and experience to make a positive difference in the lives of many, from young children (5+ yo); to tweens and teens; and to adults. By meeting people where they are and not where they are expected to be, I empower my clients to lift themselves up to a place in life where they want to be.
I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) native to McLean, VA. For 25 years I’ve had the opportunity to use my training, skills and experience to make a positive difference in the lives of many, from young children (5+ yo); to tweens and teens; and to adults. By meeting people where they are and not where they are expected to be, I empower my clients to lift themselves up to a place in life where they want to be.
(571) 290-2170 View (571) 290-2170
Photo of Karen L Hahn, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen L Hahn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22101
From my work with children & families, I know it takes courage to seek help for your child, to sharpen your parenting skills, or to improve your family dynamics; it absolutely takes a village to raise a child, I would be honored to be a part of yours.
My work with adults includes those with a trauma history, depression, anxiety, grief, relational issues, somatic symptoms with no medical explanation, feeling stuck or sensing that something is just “not right”, as well as healthcare providers & other first responders who have experienced increased stress during the COVID crisis. My experience with children includes those with a trauma history, adoption, depression, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, divorce, school refusal, low self-esteem, difficult peer & family relationships, immigration, & cross-cultural adjustments.
From my work with children & families, I know it takes courage to seek help for your child, to sharpen your parenting skills, or to improve your family dynamics; it absolutely takes a village to raise a child, I would be honored to be a part of yours.
My work with adults includes those with a trauma history, depression, anxiety, grief, relational issues, somatic symptoms with no medical explanation, feeling stuck or sensing that something is just “not right”, as well as healthcare providers & other first responders who have experienced increased stress during the COVID crisis. My experience with children includes those with a trauma history, adoption, depression, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, divorce, school refusal, low self-esteem, difficult peer & family relationships, immigration, & cross-cultural adjustments.
(571) 487-7202 View (571) 487-7202
Photo of W. R. Nay, PhD, Psychologist
W. R. Nay
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22102  (Online Only)
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) believes that how you think determines how you feel and act when a situation with your spouse, child, friend or co-worker arises.
I am a professor (University of Illinois, currently: Georgetown Medical School) and in private practice. As a teacher of tools, skills and strategies, my clients quickly learn new, more effective behaviors to reduce discomfort and be more successful. My approach is not so much placing a label on people but in offering ideas for what they can DO NOW and in the future to learn and implement new successful behaviors. I enjoy working with mood, anxiety, anger and behavioral problems for all the ages. My approach is pragmatic, behavioral and usually is short-term to achieve well-defined results.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) believes that how you think determines how you feel and act when a situation with your spouse, child, friend or co-worker arises.
I am a professor (University of Illinois, currently: Georgetown Medical School) and in private practice. As a teacher of tools, skills and strategies, my clients quickly learn new, more effective behaviors to reduce discomfort and be more successful. My approach is not so much placing a label on people but in offering ideas for what they can DO NOW and in the future to learn and implement new successful behaviors. I enjoy working with mood, anxiety, anger and behavioral problems for all the ages. My approach is pragmatic, behavioral and usually is short-term to achieve well-defined results.
(703) 468-8142 View (703) 468-8142
Photo of Barbara Lavine, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Barbara Lavine
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101
Her extensive experience working as a school counselor enables her to support children with their personal and school related issues by working collaboratively with the child, their families, school professionals.
Do you have concerns about your child or have work/personal issues? Barbara specializes in working with school-age children, age four through preteens, their families, and adults who are dealing with anxiety, grief, ADHD, school challenges, adjustment, family, friendship, work place issues. She strongly believes that through counseling one can make life changes and develop the life and social skills needed to overcome obstacles and live more satisfying and successful lives. She uses a variety of approaches: solution-focused, client-centered, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), relaxation and mindfulness, play, art therapy, and role play with children.
Her extensive experience working as a school counselor enables her to support children with their personal and school related issues by working collaboratively with the child, their families, school professionals.
Do you have concerns about your child or have work/personal issues? Barbara specializes in working with school-age children, age four through preteens, their families, and adults who are dealing with anxiety, grief, ADHD, school challenges, adjustment, family, friendship, work place issues. She strongly believes that through counseling one can make life changes and develop the life and social skills needed to overcome obstacles and live more satisfying and successful lives. She uses a variety of approaches: solution-focused, client-centered, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), relaxation and mindfulness, play, art therapy, and role play with children.
(703) 552-8555 View (703) 552-8555
Photo of Megan Sharkey, LPC Intern
Megan Sharkey
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22101
Together, we can explore how counseling can support you or your child on the path to greater well-being.
With 10 years of experience as an educator, I understand the unique challenges young people face. Whether it's academic pressures, social concerns, or personal transitions, I'm here to help your child reach their full potential.
Together, we can explore how counseling can support you or your child on the path to greater well-being.
With 10 years of experience as an educator, I understand the unique challenges young people face. Whether it's academic pressures, social concerns, or personal transitions, I'm here to help your child reach their full potential.
(571) 604-6840 View (571) 604-6840
Photo of Sarah T Tyler, LCSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah T Tyler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101
I support children living with divorced, blended or non-traditional family structures.
Feeling overwhelmed and/or stuck? Are you struggling to enjoy your family or loved ones? Welcome to my practice and I look forward to working with you. Providing a safe and comfortable environment, I will listen to you and offer fresh perspectives on challenging and/or overwhelming life circumstances. With 20 years of experience, my areas of focus include but are not limited to depression, anxiety, trauma, adjustment and transitions, and crisis management. I enjoy working with children, adults and families. My practice includes consultation, assessment and evaluation and when warranted I will provide in-home and school observations.
I support children living with divorced, blended or non-traditional family structures.
Feeling overwhelmed and/or stuck? Are you struggling to enjoy your family or loved ones? Welcome to my practice and I look forward to working with you. Providing a safe and comfortable environment, I will listen to you and offer fresh perspectives on challenging and/or overwhelming life circumstances. With 20 years of experience, my areas of focus include but are not limited to depression, anxiety, trauma, adjustment and transitions, and crisis management. I enjoy working with children, adults and families. My practice includes consultation, assessment and evaluation and when warranted I will provide in-home and school observations.
(703) 957-7754 View (703) 957-7754
Photo of Virginia Gigi Larsen Gallup, PsyD, NCSP, ABSNP, Psychologist
Virginia Gigi Larsen Gallup
Psychologist, PsyD, NCSP, ABSNP
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22102
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in treating children, adolescents, young adults, and their families.
In therapy, I use an assimilative-integrative approach to best meet the unique needs of my clients. My approach emphasizes a client-centered, but systemic orientation. I use evidence-based treatments that are informed by cognitive-behavioral, developmental, and relational/attachment theories. I work to build open and warm relationships with my clients and I honor the ways in which one's background and culture inform our work. Therapy is a collaborative process meant to foster positive change as my clients and families develop more compassion for themselves and one another.
I specialize in treating children, adolescents, young adults, and their families.
In therapy, I use an assimilative-integrative approach to best meet the unique needs of my clients. My approach emphasizes a client-centered, but systemic orientation. I use evidence-based treatments that are informed by cognitive-behavioral, developmental, and relational/attachment theories. I work to build open and warm relationships with my clients and I honor the ways in which one's background and culture inform our work. Therapy is a collaborative process meant to foster positive change as my clients and families develop more compassion for themselves and one another.
(571) 454-9861 View (571) 454-9861
Photo of Cynthia R. Mathis, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cynthia R. Mathis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101
I provide psychotherapy services for children, adolescents, adults, and families, in addition to facilitating social skills groups. I specialize in working with children and adolescents on the autistic spectrum and with other developmental delays. I also treat children and adults struggling with sensory integration, anxiety, depression, ADHD, divorce, adjustment disorders, and parenting and relational issues.
I provide psychotherapy services for children, adolescents, adults, and families, in addition to facilitating social skills groups. I specialize in working with children and adolescents on the autistic spectrum and with other developmental delays. I also treat children and adults struggling with sensory integration, anxiety, depression, ADHD, divorce, adjustment disorders, and parenting and relational issues.
(703) 468-8325 View (703) 468-8325
Photo of Erika Davis, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erika Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101
I am passionate about helping children work through trauma, anger, anxiety, school and familial stressors in order to express their needs and desires in appropriate ways.
It is my belief that by creating a caring, nonjudgmental, authentic and safe therapeutic relationship, clients can feel empowered to create the life they want to lead. I work with children, adolescents, and adults in various life stages through a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and person-centered therapy, Mindfulness practices and psychodynamic approaches. I have an extensive background in working with children of all ages and their families. I love helping clients to realize they have many of the skills needed to get themselves where they want to go.
I am passionate about helping children work through trauma, anger, anxiety, school and familial stressors in order to express their needs and desires in appropriate ways.
It is my belief that by creating a caring, nonjudgmental, authentic and safe therapeutic relationship, clients can feel empowered to create the life they want to lead. I work with children, adolescents, and adults in various life stages through a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and person-centered therapy, Mindfulness practices and psychodynamic approaches. I have an extensive background in working with children of all ages and their families. I love helping clients to realize they have many of the skills needed to get themselves where they want to go.
(703) 457-9072 View (703) 457-9072
Photo of Elise Brown, LPC, C-DBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elise Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22101  (Online Only)
“I’m no good at this.” “I give up.” “This is too hard!” Do any of these statements sound familiar? Sometimes, being a human is hard work. I am here to help. I believe everything in life starts with our mindset and how we think about ourselves and the world around us. I am passionate about assisting children, adolescents, teens, and parents to explore both their strengths and vulnerabilities. While the foundation of my work is rooted in supporting and building confidence, growth mindset, and self-compassion; each client receives an individualized treatment plan that suites their own unique needs.
“I’m no good at this.” “I give up.” “This is too hard!” Do any of these statements sound familiar? Sometimes, being a human is hard work. I am here to help. I believe everything in life starts with our mindset and how we think about ourselves and the world around us. I am passionate about assisting children, adolescents, teens, and parents to explore both their strengths and vulnerabilities. While the foundation of my work is rooted in supporting and building confidence, growth mindset, and self-compassion; each client receives an individualized treatment plan that suites their own unique needs.
(571) 322-8660 View (571) 322-8660
Photo of Katie Clark, LPC, RPT-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT-S, NCC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22101
As a parent, seeing your child face emotional or behavioral challenges can feel overwhelming.
As a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor, I work with children ages 3 and up who may be struggling with anxiety, behavioral challenges, trauma, or emotional regulation. Parents seek my support when their child is having difficulty expressing feelings or coping with life transitions. My goal is to create a safe, playful environment where children can process their emotions, build resilience, and develop healthy coping skills. I partner with parents to empower their children, helping them thrive both emotionally and socially
As a parent, seeing your child face emotional or behavioral challenges can feel overwhelming.
As a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor, I work with children ages 3 and up who may be struggling with anxiety, behavioral challenges, trauma, or emotional regulation. Parents seek my support when their child is having difficulty expressing feelings or coping with life transitions. My goal is to create a safe, playful environment where children can process their emotions, build resilience, and develop healthy coping skills. I partner with parents to empower their children, helping them thrive both emotionally and socially
(703) 348-3732 View (703) 348-3732
Photo of Sarah McClerren, MA, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah McClerren
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22101
Counselors have the unique opportunity to facilitate healing and change through their relationships with others. I believe that the seeds of change are first planted through safe relationships where one can be open and honest without judgement. Creating a supportive environment for my clients to process and grow is what I love most about therapy. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults on a variety of mental health issues, including mood disorders, behavioral disorders, trauma, and relationship problems. It would be an honor and a privilege to walk with you on your journey.
Counselors have the unique opportunity to facilitate healing and change through their relationships with others. I believe that the seeds of change are first planted through safe relationships where one can be open and honest without judgement. Creating a supportive environment for my clients to process and grow is what I love most about therapy. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults on a variety of mental health issues, including mood disorders, behavioral disorders, trauma, and relationship problems. It would be an honor and a privilege to walk with you on your journey.
(571) 200-7594 View (571) 200-7594
Photo of Mark Gardner, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mark Gardner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101
I look forward to speaking with you about your child during a complimentary phone screening to determine if I can be helpful.
Is your toddler, preschooler or early-elementary school-age child struggling at home or in their child-care setting, preschool or school? Is their behavior disrupting the school day or home life? There are many reasons this could be occurring: medical, sensory-motor or developmental issues; a misfit between him/her and the child-care environment; emotion regulation or neurocognitive problems; or family or parenting stress. I'm here to help you uncover the mystery of your child's current challenges, reduce problematic behaviors, and implement strategies for home and school that will get your child back onto a pathway to social-emotional wellness.
I look forward to speaking with you about your child during a complimentary phone screening to determine if I can be helpful.
Is your toddler, preschooler or early-elementary school-age child struggling at home or in their child-care setting, preschool or school? Is their behavior disrupting the school day or home life? There are many reasons this could be occurring: medical, sensory-motor or developmental issues; a misfit between him/her and the child-care environment; emotion regulation or neurocognitive problems; or family or parenting stress. I'm here to help you uncover the mystery of your child's current challenges, reduce problematic behaviors, and implement strategies for home and school that will get your child back onto a pathway to social-emotional wellness.
(703) 498-2931 View (703) 498-2931
Photo of Krista Hummer, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Krista Hummer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101
My work also includes working as a treatment coordinator in a nationally recognized educational/clinical setting with children and adolescents.
Hello and welcome. Finding a therapist can be a daunting process as you search for a person who will meet you or your family's needs for counseling expertise. To aid with this, here is a mini bio of my practice and training. Please see my website, www.kristahummer.com for further information. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist that works with children, adults, families, and couples to aid in growth, healing, and life transitions.
My work also includes working as a treatment coordinator in a nationally recognized educational/clinical setting with children and adolescents.
Hello and welcome. Finding a therapist can be a daunting process as you search for a person who will meet you or your family's needs for counseling expertise. To aid with this, here is a mini bio of my practice and training. Please see my website, www.kristahummer.com for further information. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist that works with children, adults, families, and couples to aid in growth, healing, and life transitions.
(703) 468-8024 View (703) 468-8024
Photo of Anne Fleury, LCSW, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne Fleury
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PLLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22101
With adolescents and children I focus on helping to build self-esteem, develop independence and mastery, learn coping skills, and improve behavior and social skills.
All of us need help from time to time, and I love my work as a therapist providing individual, family, and group counseling. I am experienced in working with children and adults, and my focus is on providing a safe and supportive environment. I utilize insight-oriented approaches including cognitive-behavior therapy, sand tray techniques, and play therapy. I co-lead social skills and process groups, and my background in home-based crisis counseling and critical incident stress debriefing lends itself to working with those who are in crisis or have suffered trauma.
With adolescents and children I focus on helping to build self-esteem, develop independence and mastery, learn coping skills, and improve behavior and social skills.
All of us need help from time to time, and I love my work as a therapist providing individual, family, and group counseling. I am experienced in working with children and adults, and my focus is on providing a safe and supportive environment. I utilize insight-oriented approaches including cognitive-behavior therapy, sand tray techniques, and play therapy. I co-lead social skills and process groups, and my background in home-based crisis counseling and critical incident stress debriefing lends itself to working with those who are in crisis or have suffered trauma.
(703) 282-5937 View (703) 282-5937
Photo of Brittany Belscher, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brittany Belscher
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101  (Online Only)
Whether you're seeking support for your child or adolescent, a young adult through the transition into adulthood, an athlete wanting to reach peak performance, or navigating the complexities of parenthood, I am here to help you on your transformative journey. My goal is to provide a safe and nurturing environment where individuals and families can navigate challenges, develop effective coping strategies, and foster personal growth. My practice approach to therapy is rooted in three core principles: an evidence-based approach, holistic perspective, and compassionate, gentle support.
Whether you're seeking support for your child or adolescent, a young adult through the transition into adulthood, an athlete wanting to reach peak performance, or navigating the complexities of parenthood, I am here to help you on your transformative journey. My goal is to provide a safe and nurturing environment where individuals and families can navigate challenges, develop effective coping strategies, and foster personal growth. My practice approach to therapy is rooted in three core principles: an evidence-based approach, holistic perspective, and compassionate, gentle support.
(571) 475-8252 View (571) 475-8252
Photo of Carolyn Heier Young, PsyD, Psychologist
Carolyn Heier Young
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22101
In addition, in working with children, I conduct play therapy and use behavioral interventions as needed.
I work with a diverse group of clients, including children, teens, adults, couples, and families. I am able to help individuals of all ages with a wide range of issues, including depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, and trauma. With children, I also help with ADHD, emotional and behavioral problems, and selective mutism, and I help parents with parenting skills. Bilingual in English and Spanish, I enjoy working with individuals from diverse groups, including the LGBTQ community and individuals from diverse ethnic backgrounds. I help adults and children alike to achieve their goals and reach their full potential.
In addition, in working with children, I conduct play therapy and use behavioral interventions as needed.
I work with a diverse group of clients, including children, teens, adults, couples, and families. I am able to help individuals of all ages with a wide range of issues, including depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, and trauma. With children, I also help with ADHD, emotional and behavioral problems, and selective mutism, and I help parents with parenting skills. Bilingual in English and Spanish, I enjoy working with individuals from diverse groups, including the LGBTQ community and individuals from diverse ethnic backgrounds. I help adults and children alike to achieve their goals and reach their full potential.
(703) 293-5867 View (703) 293-5867
Photo of Nicole W McGarry, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole W McGarry
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101
Specialties include early childhood development, attachment issues and adoption, adolescent development, behavioral challenges, mind/body integration work, women's issues, and trauma treatment.
My practice is designed to help children, adolescents, and adults with healthy development, personal confidence, and more satisfying relationships. I offer individual and group therapy to help kids with labeling and identifying feelings, developing and maintaining friendships, reading social cues, and increasing self-esteem. In working with adults, I create a supportive environment to explore a better life balance, manage stress, and improve close relationships. I value comprehensive treatment, and work with schools and other professionals to assure positive treatment outcomes.
Specialties include early childhood development, attachment issues and adoption, adolescent development, behavioral challenges, mind/body integration work, women's issues, and trauma treatment.
My practice is designed to help children, adolescents, and adults with healthy development, personal confidence, and more satisfying relationships. I offer individual and group therapy to help kids with labeling and identifying feelings, developing and maintaining friendships, reading social cues, and increasing self-esteem. In working with adults, I create a supportive environment to explore a better life balance, manage stress, and improve close relationships. I value comprehensive treatment, and work with schools and other professionals to assure positive treatment outcomes.
(202) 684-2058 View (202) 684-2058
Photo of Mary A Ellis, JD, PsyD, Psychologist
Mary A Ellis
Psychologist, JD, PsyD
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22102
With background in child/adolescent/adult work, I have developed a special interest in treating adults of all ages struggling with balancing competing demands of work, family, social life, and self-care. Having enjoyed a successful, though unusual, career path I have a particular affinity for individuals in the science/tech fields and for those undertaking advanced degrees in highly competitive programs, including the arts. I am well placed to appreciate the unspoken challenges attending living and thriving in and around the Nation’s Capital.
With background in child/adolescent/adult work, I have developed a special interest in treating adults of all ages struggling with balancing competing demands of work, family, social life, and self-care. Having enjoyed a successful, though unusual, career path I have a particular affinity for individuals in the science/tech fields and for those undertaking advanced degrees in highly competitive programs, including the arts. I am well placed to appreciate the unspoken challenges attending living and thriving in and around the Nation’s Capital.
(703) 596-1895 View (703) 596-1895
Photo of Gabrielle Lipson, MSEd, MPhil, Pre-Licensed Professional
Gabrielle Lipson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSEd, MPhil
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101
We often find ourselves seeking help when something is wrong, but I work with families and children to help them see what is right. I believe that humans are fundamentally creative, innovative, compassionate, and fully capable of accessing their joy. The therapeutic process is not one size fits all, nor will it be successful when the therapist calls all of the shots. My clients are the experts, and I work collaboratively to find the best approach to achieve growth.
We often find ourselves seeking help when something is wrong, but I work with families and children to help them see what is right. I believe that humans are fundamentally creative, innovative, compassionate, and fully capable of accessing their joy. The therapeutic process is not one size fits all, nor will it be successful when the therapist calls all of the shots. My clients are the experts, and I work collaboratively to find the best approach to achieve growth.
(571) 450-9296 View (571) 450-9296
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Child Therapists
Child psychologists in McLean, VA provide mental health therapy to children and are experts in child development.

Every comprehensive review of therapy with children shows that all credible approaches, when performed by a competent mental health clinician, produce almost the same results. About half of all kids will get better. Of those that improve, 80% will show progress in a relatively short time, while the remaining 20% will need longer-term support.

The best child therapists in McLean build great relationships with the child and the parent. They also see the child's strengths and are open to hearing the child's possible solutions to the challenges the child faces. Finally, a good therapist appreciates the child's culture and is sensitive to the values of the child's community.